A TEACHER has got used to being asked the same question every day by his pupils.

But their curiosity will be satisfied next Saturday, when ICT and music teacher Ed Blaney, from Seaham, County Durham, appears on Stars in Their Eyes.

And when he emerges from the screen smoke on to the stage, they will see their teacher performing as his idol David Bowie.

"There isn't a day goes by without them asking me when I'm going to appear on the show,'' said Mr Blaney, who teaches at Sandhill View School, Grindon, Sunderland.

His road to mass television exposure began when Mr Blaney, 46, was a teenager and became a serious fan of Bowie.

The first album he bought was Bowie's Ziggy Stardust and his admiration for the performer has continued to grow - although his favourite Bowie music remains his earlier work.

Mr Blaney has worked part-time as a guitarist and vocalist for many years, performing not only in this country, but all over the world.

It was his wife, Christina, who persuaded him to send off a demo tape to the Stars In Their Eyes show last March.

He had forgotten all about the show until he heard from the production team last July inviting him for an audition.

He was then asked to go back for a second audition after which he was told he was to appear on the show, presented by Cat Deeley.

Next Saturday, the programme featuring Mr Blaney will be broadcast.

As far as the future is concerned, Mr Blaney is busy putting together a Bowie tribute band - all he needs is a keyboard player.

Any keyboard player interested in joining the group can contact him on 07789 236533.

Published: 26/02/2005